Robert Allen Nelson Sr. Of Lisle, loving son of the late Marjorie and the late Randall Nelson, beloved husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather and dearest friend passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, at the age of 78. “Bob” is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sharon (Sawa); his three sons Robert Allen Jr. (Gretchen); Chad (Caroline); Drew (Teresa); grandfather of Cameron and Robert III Nelson, Walter Perez, and River Rose Nelson.
Born in Chicago on October 7, 1947, Bob was a graduate of Evergreen Park High School and attended Southern Illinois University. He joined the family business, John H. Nelson Heating and Air Condition, and later became President of the company. His real enthusiasm was for building, and he became a successful general contractor of commercial and residential building. Bob was an expert in every detail of construction.
Bob acquired his private pilot’s license at the age of 16. Some of his happiest flying years were at Brookeridge Aero Estates in Downers Grove. In addition, he enjoyed everything about boats, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and jet skis. Snow skiing, bowling, and golf were some of his passions. Seeing the world on numerous cruises was his joy. However, his greatest pleasure and accomplishment was raising his three sons. He took them on numerous vacations every year and taught them everything he knew. Among many activities Bob and the boys did together, fishing and boating on Lake Michigan, White Sox games, and summers in the Wisconsin Dells were special to him. As adults, they would call often to ask “Dad” how to do repairs at their homes.
Bob will always be remembered by family and numerous friends of over 50 years for his sense of humor, quick wit, kindness, and generosity. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Bob’s memory to Heart of the Nation Catholic Mass (heartofthenation.org). Family and friends will gather for a Funeral Mass at St. Joan of Arc, 820 Division Street, Lisle, on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:00 am. Interment will be private.
I think that sometimes God puts people in our lives to remind us how to be better people. That’s how I feel about Bob. Whenever Bob and I talked, he listened carefully – he made me feel that what I was saying mattered. He showed interest. What a gracious thing to do for others! The image I have of Bob is one of joy – I think he liked to laugh. He and Sharon were blessed with beautiful children – and when I would see him interacting with our granddaughter River, I knew why. He was gentle, caring, and sweet – such a good grandpa! It is comforting to know that he will be in the loving arms of our Lord until we all meet again. May God’s peace be with Bob’s family and friends at this time.
Sharon, Rob, Chad, Drew,
My condolences to all of you. Bob was a wonderful person who loved and lived for his family and friends.
Everyone enjoyed being around Bob with his wit and laughter. I’m happy to have had Bob as my friend for many years.
Bob will be missed. Love to all of you.
Gloria Caracello, Downers Grove, IL
Sharon, Robbie, Chad. Drew – Bob will forever in your hearts. It was great joy having your family as my kids grew up playing with Robbie, Chad, Drew!
Bob will be forever in our heart! Best to you
Sue Nealey, Timmy Nealey, and Summer MacDonald